Michael Meacher, the former environment minister, on Thursday became the second Labour leftwinger to declare his intention to stand against Gordon Brown, chancellor, for the leadership of the Labour party.

Mr Meacher, the veteran Labour MP for Oldham West, is thought to have amassed around 33 of the 45 backbench supporters needed to get on the ballot paper when Tony Blair announces his departure, probably in May. His main rival is another left-winger and prominent Labour rebel John McDonnell, who is believed to have fewer backers.